Lean and BIM Implementation Barriers in New Zealand Construction Practice

Abstract

The construction sector is lagging behind other industries in terms of efficiency and value achievement. Several building sector initiatives are introduced to improve productivity and project value enhancement. Significant developments such as Lean principles and BIM tools have been applied in the construction sector to achieve efficiency and enhanced productivity while minimizing waste. Lean principles in construction practice are a developing research area, and BIM tools have been widely used in construction project delivery and communications. Although these concepts are beneficial, barriers to their integration and joint implementation have not previously been explored. The paper investigates barriers to implementing Lean and BIM and their interrelationships in the New Zealand construction industry. A three-step triangulation methodology was used in the study to validate the findings. The study used an extensive literature review process, case studies, and expert interviews to consolidate the findings. Barriers to Lean and BIM implementation in construction practice were identified, which include strong cultural resistance, lack of Lean-BIM understanding, resistance to change, lack of knowledge of the Lean-BIM method, and lack of support from senior staff in New Zealand organizations. The effect of implementing Lean-BIM principles is discussed, as are recommendations for implementing the method in construction practice.

Barriers to BIM Implementation in the HVAC Industry: An Exploratory Study

“…In addition, there is a problem with incresing the BIM capabilities of technical staff. Several studies have also highlighted lack of motivation and resistance to BIM [91][92][93][94]. BIM, which is a leading factor in increasing the production and efficiency [95], is more complex than traditional CAD software.…”

Characterization of the information system integrated to the construction project management systems

“…The combination of PLM and Lean is seldom used in the construction industry. It is more frequently applied in the aeronautical [ 74 ], and manufacturing [ 75 ] sectors. BIM tools have been implemented in construction and integrated into project management.…”

Developing a framework for building information modelling (BIM) adoption in New Zealand

“…Abdelaal and Guo (2022) found that integrating BIM and life cycle assessment (LCA) can bring potential gains to construction projects, but their current implementation is not aligned. Amongst barriers to lean and BIM adoption, cultural resistance, lack of understanding, resistance to change, lack of knowledge and support are essential (Likita et al ., 2022).…”